I hope this email finds you well. The last time we spoke, you were [fill in activity or event, such as "presenting at the NSHMBA conference" or "working on your new product launch."] I trust that went well.

I wanted to update you on my status. Although previously at [name of employer] as their [title], the company recently experienced several changes, which has prompted me to explore some new career options. [Or, I've since left the company and am exploring some new career options.] I'm hoping you might be able to help as I conduct some preliminary research. Do you know of any companies that may be looking for a new [your title]?

I'd like to give you a quick call this coming week and hear what's new with you. In the meantime, I've attached an article [or include a link to an article] that made me think of you when I saw it. Hope it's helpful - enjoy! Thank you in advance!

Don't overwhelm networking contacts with too much information or too many requests right out of the gate. Stay focused on building rapport.

Tips

Search the company name and scroll down to see employee names and job titles. You can get connected to certain individuals by joining industry-specific LinkedIn groups. If you want to connect with someone at a company that is hiring, click on the employee name and click connect with "John Smith". You should choose the friend option and modify the script below.

When contacting someone on LinkedIn that you do not know, make sure you cover these three questions:

Why are you messaging me?

How do you know me?

What do you want me to do?

Here is another template that can be modified for a networking letter. This version works best for contacting someone you may not know or have a mutual connection through LinkedIn.

I found your contact information on LinkedIn and we have a mutual connection, "John Smith" [If you do not have a mutual connection then try joining groups that the employee is currently in and reference that] and I'm applying to the XYZ position at your company. I wanted to know if you would be willing to introduce me to the appropriate person regarding the XYZ position? [list a sentence or two on your business and industry experience, and then one short sentence itemizing an accomplishment such as "as a turnaround expert, I most recently led XYZ company to significant profitability within the first year. "]

I've found over the years that being connected to highly regarded people is the greatest asset for career success - in business in general and in the job search. Although I am the one seeking information at this time, I hope to be able to return the favor to you or someone you know in the future. Thank you for your time!